Peaches contain a very high amount of water: 90%. Did you know that? This sweet fruit, typical of the summer period, brings with it the aroma of the holidays. Plus, it’s rich in important beneficial properties for your health. Peach contains vitamins A, B and C and other essential minerals like magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and calcium.
The nutritional value of peaches
Depending on the variety, peaches may have a smooth or velvety skin, white or yellow flesh and a more or less sweet taste. Nutritional values are calculated by considering that one peach provides 25 kcal per 100 g, with 6.1 g carbohydrates, 0.8 g protein, 0.1 g lipids. 90% is water and it also has a good amount of fiber. Peach is a low-calorie fruit: It can be included in diets when you’re trying to lose weight –thanks to the fiber content, peaches stimulate our sense of fullness, helping the body fight hunger attacks. The nutritional values are the same when it comes to fresh fruit in its natural state, but be careful with products such as peaches in syrup or dehydrated peaches. The presence of sugar can increase the energy value to 357 kcal per 100 g in the case of dehydrated peaches.
The benefits of peaches
Contrary to popular belief, peaches are not prohibited for people with diabetes. On the contrary, the glycemic index for peaches is actually low. Peaches help us replenish liquids after training, which is why it is a healthy idea for snacks or for athlete’s diets. Rich in potassium, this fruit also has diuretic properties: It stimulates diuresis and fights water retention. It helps eliminate excess water and toxins, helping the liver and kidneys. It counteracts the effects of hypertension and fights constipation. It has purifying and digestive properties. The flavonoids present in peach pulp have an antioxidant action that protects the skin from free radical damage too, even stimulating collagen production and sebum production (the natural film that keeps hair soft and healthy).
Where do peaches come from? Its origins and uses
Originally from China, the peach tree, belonging to the Rosaceae family, is a symbol of immortality. In Europe, it spread from the first century A.D. through Alexander the Great, when it was exported throughout the Mediterranean basin. Because of the chemical treatments used in agriculture, it’s usually best to peel the peach. To appreciate the extraordinary taste of the peach, it’s ideal to buy from local producers and markets in the area. Peaches are perfect for breakfast or as a snack – natural or cut into pieces for a fruit salad. What about using this sweet fruit for a DIY drink recipe? Just add slices of fresh peach to an infusion of flowers and fresh lavender branches: Let cool, filter and serve with lots of ice cubes and fresh mint.